“Quarantine during COVID-19 outbreak: changes in Diet and physical activity increase the risk of cardiovascular disease”

Aims. CoV-19/SARS-CoV-2 is a highly pathogenic virus that is causing a global pandemic 53 with a high number of deaths and infected people. To contain the diffusion of infection, 54 several Governments have enforced restrictions on outdoor activities or even collective 55 quarantine on the population. The present commentary briefly analyzes the effects of 56 quarantine on lifestyle, including nutrition and physical activity and the impact of new 57 technologies in dealing with this situation. 58 Data Synthesis. Quarantine is associated with stress and depression leading to unhealthy 59 diet and reduced physical activity. A diet poor in fruit and vegetables is frequent during 60 isolation, with a consequent low intake of antioxidants and vitamins. However, vitamins 61 have recently been identified as a principal weapon in the fight against the Cov-19 virus. 62 Some reports suggest that Vitamin D could exert a protective effect on such infection. 63 During quarantine, strategies to further increase home-based physical activity and to 64 encourage adherence to a healthy diet should be implemented. The WHO has just released 65 guidance for people in self-quarantine, those without any symptoms or diagnosis of acute 66 respiratory illness, which provides practical advice on how to stay active and reduce 67 sedentary behaviour while at home.